[Jeffery Hill]

I disclosed nearly 2 years ago and was treated no differently before or after.  8 months later I announced my plan to retire in 6 months.  The company worked with me to recruit and train a successor, and I was able to retire on schedule.

[Jeffery Hill]

Like those above my first symptom was loss of smell years ago, but I treated it as a nuisance and did not bring it up with my doctor.  4 years ago at age 56 I felt weakness in my forearms, a slight tremor in my left thumb and deteriorating handwriting.  I secured an appointment with a neurologist within a year and she confirmed PD.  My father also had PD and was diagnosed at a similar age. I knew what was coming.

Work was not helpful.  My occupation was IT project management, which was fairly stressful and prevented me from exercising at the level I would like to.   I became fatigued, and my muscles in my arms and hips cramped up. My tremor worsened and I often felt overwhelmed.  Fortunately my finances allowed me to retire, so I worked with my employer to find my replacement and trained her by doubling up on my last project. I finished April 30 at age 60.

Upon retirement I immediately ramped up my exercise to 2 hours a day, 5 days a week.  I blend cycling (spin and outdoor), weight training and aqua fit.  Initially it was a little exhausting, and I napped a lot.  Within 3 months the cramps were gone, and within 4 months I rarely needed a nap, even after a heavy workout.  The tremor is still there, but I don’t notice it as much.

My neurologist and I have agreed to continue to defer the start of levadopa based on these good results.  I take Rasagiline which is thought to have preventative properties.